Covid-19 Vaccine FAQ for our Patients

Surgical Care:

Q: Should I discuss the COVID-19 Vaccine with my primary care doctor prior to seeing my orthopedic surgeon for surgery?

A: We recommend you discuss the vaccine with your primary care provider. Both Pfizer and Moderna do recommend that you discuss the vaccine with your primary care provider for the following reasons:

If you have a history of allergies
If you have a fever
Have a bleeding disorder or are on a blood thinner
Are immunocompromised or are on a medicine that affects your immune system
Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
Are breastfeeding
Other?

Q: Should I get the COVID-19 Vaccine before or after my planned surgery?
A: That decision will be left to the patient and their PCP.
At this time, there are no restrictions for surgical care once a patient has received the vaccine. However, testing will still be required.

Q: Can I proceed with surgery if I decline the COVID-19 Vaccine?
A: We recommend that everyone get the vaccine if and when able to do so but do not require it. All patients require a Covid-19 test prior to surgery.

Q: If I experience symptoms after my vaccine, can I still see my orthopedic surgeon in the office?
A: If you develop a fever over 101.0, we recommend you call the office. If you have symptoms after the vaccine, you should wait until you are symptom-free for 24 hours.

Q: If I get the Vaccine, do I still have to wear a mask?
A: Yes. We follow guidelines published by the Washington department of health for office visits.

Office visits:

Can I proceed with Viscosupplement injections before or after my vaccine?
Yes

Can I proceed with a cortisone injection before or after my vaccine?
Given the lack of clear evidence regarding potential harm with the use of corticosteroids in musculoskeletal care during the COVID-19 pandemic, robust discussion with the patients regarding the potential risks and alternative treatments is critical. Particularly in those patients who are elderly or have multiple medical co-morbidities, this communication is necessary before proceeding with corticosteroid treatment to allow patients to make an informed decision. (Copied from the AAOS website)

Shoulders:

Pre vaccine instructions: If you have had a steroid injection, you should proceed with your vaccine in the non-injected arm.
Post vaccine instructions: Cortisone injections are NOT RECOMMENDED between vaccines.
Vaccinated arm: Wait 3 months
Non vaccinated arm: Wait 2 weeks
Post-op: wait 3 months after surgery